Edited by Hwang Hong Sun
Translated by by Kim Hoyeun
Flex x Cop spins the tale of a carefree and immature chaebol heir thrown into the thick of law enforcement. Adapted from the Russian TV series Silver Spoon, this series is the brainchild of The Cursed director Kim Jae Hong and My Name writer Kim Bada. Together, they’ve crafted a drama that twists the often-tiresome clichés of detective stories into a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Let’s delve into what exactly has captured the audience’s hearts with this standout series.
Detective dramas often tread a familiar path: the wealthy and powerful commit crimes with impunity, shielded by their societal stature. The narrative usually centers around a few justice-driven protagonists who, despite the struggles, manage to bring these untouchables to justice, often facing the question, “Can you handle this?”
However, Flex x Cop diverges from this beaten track. Here, the protagonist wields more money and power than the criminals he pursues, leading to a refreshingly assertive investigation where wealth and influence reign supreme.
Jin Yi Soo (An Bo Hyun) is the leading conglomerate Hansu Group’s youngest son and an influencer. His accidental apprehension of a violent criminal leads to his assignment to the Seoul Gangha Police Station’s Violent Crimes Unit 1. Of course, he isn’t welcomed into the team and is excluded from work for various excuses. Then, is this the story of internal conflict? No. Rather, Yi Soo solves complex cases one by one with his formidable background and inexhaustible resources.
Yi Soo’s investigative methods epitomize the concept of “flexing.” He uses his wealth to purchase items on the black market and gain access to exclusive clubs beyond the reach of regular law enforcement to go after the criminals. While his tactics may seem unreliable, they provide a gratifying solution to the frustration often felt in traditional detective shows when faced with the corruption and influence of money and power.
Yet, there’s a bittersweet undertone to the thrill of watching the wealthy use their resources to combat crime. Flex x Cop offers a satirical look at the uncomfortable truths of South Korean society within the exhilarating justice, creating a unique tone.
>> Ahn Bo Hyun Talks About His Role in ‘FlexxCop’ and Working with Park Ji Hyun
One of the delightful surprises in Flex x Cop is witnessing Jin Yi Soo’s transformation from a frivolous chaebol heir to a dedicated detective. Thrust suddenly into the role of a cop, Yi Soo initially sees his new position as nothing more than a game. This attitude leads to friction with the Violent Crimes Unit 1, but as they solve cases together, Yi Soo begins to change. Watching him adopt the basics of professional life, like punctuality and report-writing, adds a layer of intrigue to the story. It’s this growth that enriches the narrative, making Yi Soo’s transition from a lightweight character to a compelling detective all the more convincing to viewers.
The dynamics within the team, particularly the evolving relationship between Yi Soo and the Violent Crimes Unit 1 team leader, Lee Kang Hyun (Park Ji Hyun), stand out with each episode. Initially at odds, their relationship deepens through investigations and emotional exchanges, moving beyond mere colleagues to something more profound. The drama skillfully navigates their relationship away from any romantic undertones, focusing instead on their camaraderie and mutual growth. Kang Hyun helps Yi Soo shed his novice detective skin as a mentor, warming viewers to the team as a whole, not just its most affluent member.
Having aired eight episodes, Flex x Cop has reached a pivotal moment. Until now, the series has thrived on episodic stories centered around the Violent Crimes Unit 1’s case-solving. However, it hints at a main storyline involving the mysterious death of Yi Soo’s mother, connecting to a bribery scandal tied to Kang Hyun’s father (Kwon Hae Hyo) who got dishonorably discharged. Now, it’s time for the show, which had mainly been focusing on the “flexing,” to delve into deeper, more meaningful themes like what it means to be a true detective. And as a loyal viewer, I look forward to it. (7/10)
Editor Hwang Hong Sun: A Korean movie buff who wishes that the warm messages in good works will warm up this world at least by one degree Fahrenheit.
